“Although these bacteria are normally found on skin there was a surprisingly high number growing from the wristbands,” Microbiology professor Dr Alison Cottell of the University of Surrey told The Mirror.

“Staphylococci are usually harmless but can cause boils and also infect cuts and grazes. They can also cause acute food poisoning if they are ingested.

Festival festies … People are being warned to ditch their old wrist bands. Picture: GettySource: Getty Images

“Infections are most likely to affect the ability of cuts and grazes to heal. More serious, but rare, complications include septicaemia.

“The hospital superbug, MRSA, is a type of staphylococcus very resistant to a number of common antibiotics.

Party time … Festival goers enjoy the sunshine outside their tents on Day 1 of the Glastonbury Festival at Worthy Farm. Picture: APSource: Getty Images

“It would be advisable not to wear them if working in industries such as healthcare or food preparation, where there is a risk that the bacteria may spread to other people,” she added.